Dealing with Shoulder Pain from Frozen Shoulder

A common cause of shoulder pain is a condition called adhesive capsulitis, which is more commonly known as frozen shoulder. This condition results from adhesions forming in and around the shoulder joint, causing pain and difficulty moving. It typically resolves itself, but this may take years without treatment. Dr. Robert Kirby serves as shoulder pain doctor Lexington, KY patients can count on to help decrease healing time and find effective pain relief.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Typically, frozen shoulder starts slowly and develops over time. The first stage is often the most painful. This is when the shoulder is developing the adhesions and losing range of motion, but you are still using it. Some people report increased pain at night. Once the shoulder ‘freezes’, the pain often resolves but there is extremely limited movement. Treatment leads to the ‘thawing’ stage, where a range of motion is improved.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

Unfortunately, doctors aren’t quite sure why frozen shoulder occurs. The condition itself involves a thickening of the capsule that holds the shoulder joint together. The thickened capsule then restricts movement and causes pain. However, the reason that this occurs and the exact triggers are still a medical mystery.

Anyone can develop frozen shoulder, but some people are at greater risk than others. One risk factor is having to immobilize your arm for a long period of time, such as after surgery or a broken bone. There are other risk factors as well:

Over age 40

Female

History of frozen shoulder on the other side

Previous shoulder injury

Most people do not get frozen shoulder a second time in the same shoulder. However, having frozen shoulder on one side can increase your risk of developing it on the other side. Certain diseases may also predispose people to frozen shoulder:

Diabetes

Thyroid conditions

Cardiovascular disease

Parkinson’s disease

Tuberculosis

Visiting Our Chiropractor for Shoulder Pain

Our chiropractor for shoulder pain, Dr. Robert Kirby, can diagnose and treat your shoulder injury through a variety of interventions, including physiotherapy and corrective exercises. He serves as a shoulder pain doctor Lexington, KY can count on. If you are suffering from any kind of shoulder pain, call ChiroWorks Pain and Injury Center at 859-300-6215 to make an appointment with our chiropractor for shoulder pain.